Transport minister Norman Baker has announced a £40 million upgrade for bus links in East Lancashire.

This will improve the bus network and connections between major areas, such as Blackburn, Darwen and Accrington. It will see new bus stations, dedicated bus lanes, restrictions on parking and improved traffic control systems that prioritise buses created. Improved facilities for the benefit of cyclists and pedestrians  will also be incorporated.

Mr Baker said: "This scheme will help boost the East Lancashire economy while providing everyone with easy access to good quality public transport, with easy connections between the area's key towns and linking with the rail network."

The funding, only recently approved, was originally planned in 2011 as part of the Spending Review. Of the total £39.9 million, the Department for Transport will provide £31.9 million at most.

Blackburn Bus Station is planned to be completed by December next year and the last highway work will be finished by March 2016.